The art of cut and pierced lampshades is an old colonial craft that dates back to the pierced tin lanterns of several hundred years ago.  Gradually, shades made of heavy paper and often colorfully decorated replaced the tin shades on old oil lamps.  Today this craft is still practiced in New England and along the East Coast. 

    Growing up in a creative atmosphere, I unwittingly became an apprentice to my mother who herself learned the craft and developed a nice business in Pennsylvania.  It was many years, however, before I realized the potential and put my talents to work.  Over the last twenty years I have worked on lampshades that are made of paper, heavy stock that can take a bit of wear and tear, delicately hand-painted with watercolors, and then carefully cut to give the designs shape and vitality when the light shines through. Lighting is essential to imparting a warm, comfortable and inviting feeling to your home. Beautiful lampshades can instantly transform a room and show character and good taste.  A hand-cut and pierced lampshade can be as attractive in your home as any work of art!

    Most of the lampshades that I sell are custom made for the old lamps that clients have had tucked away for years.  I have recently begun selling small shades for chandeliers and have experimented with colored paper and some newer designs.  Prices are based on the bottom diameter and range from about $30 to $150 for a lampshade.